We've hit refresh!

We’re now proudly known as Native.

Take a look around…

Best classical music events in London

31 Aug 2018

Blog

London is home to rich musical history and some of the most talented musicians in the world. With both long-standing British institutions and a constant stream of visiting international acts, if you love classical music, then London is one of the best places you can visit to indulge your passions.

Free Fortissimo

Classical music might conjure up the idea of a hefty ticket price, but in London, there are many free classical concerts and events. If you’re a little strapped for cash, head along to one of the free afternoon concerts at St Martin in the Fields near Trafalgar Square. You can also attend one of the Royal College of Music’s free events in a beautiful venue such as The Victoria and Albert Museum or St Stephen’s Church. Just because a classical music concert is in London doesn’t mean it has to be pricey.

Outstanding Orchestras

No classical aficionado could resist paying a visit to one of the many orchestras that make London their home. The London Philharmonic Orchestra, as heard on Howard Shore’s incredible soundtrack for The Lord of the Rings, and the Royal Philharmonic Orchestra, who recorded the score for The Bridge on the River Kwai hold concerts in their home theatres. The London Symphony Orchestra, famous for recording John Williams’ beautiful music for Star Wars, and the BBC Symphony Orchestra, the orchestra at the heart of the BBC Proms, also have their home in London, with so many outstanding orchestras you are spoilt for choice.

Image: By Diliff from Wikimedia Commons

The BBC Proms

Undoubtedly, one of the best seasons of classical music events throughout not just London but the whole of the UK is the BBC Proms. Referred to by Czech composer Jiří Bělohlávek as “the world’s largest and most democratic music festival”, the eight-week season should be on any classical music lover’s lists. Concerts are dedicated to anniversaries of composers from around the world or notable events in history. There are even specialised proms such as the Cbeebies prom for young children or Wallace and Gromit’s Musical Madness from the 2012 season which featured the iconic British character and his loyal canine companion.

The best and most famous night of the Proms is the final night, held in one of the most imposing classical concert venues in London, that is the Royal Albert Hall. It usually takes place on the second night in September and, although tickets are like gold dust and very difficult to come by, it’s well-broadcasted by the BBC. It features some of the greatest and most recognisable pieces of classical music followed by a celebration of Britain’s contribution to classical music; this is a night not to be missed.

In London for a night at the Proms? With 15 locations throughout the city, Native offers the perfect rest between events. Book one of our fully serviced apartments today.